Waders

I'd like advice and opinion if you please on getting a new pair of breathable waders. Although I'd just love to spend >>$500 it's just not really in my allowable fly fishing budget...unless I make secret installment payments!

What would you recommend and avoid, especially seam vs. non-seam? I understand layering but warmth is important.

I have heard good things about the new welded waders such as ones from Redington. I think Orvis makes something similar. Historically I have had great luck with my Cabelas Dri-Plus and Simms G3 though I just ordered a new pair of Redingtons to try for myself.

I have heard good things about the new welded waders such as ones from Redington. I think Orvis makes something similar. Historically I have had great luck with my Cabelas Dri-Plus and Simms G3 though I just ordered a new pair of Redingtons to try for myself.

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Actually, Redington is licensed to use Orvis' technology -- Orvis developed the sonic welding on waders technique. Their Silver Sonic waders are among the best I've used at a great price. I love their design on the convertible top. http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=5H5E

I also have come to love Patagonia's waders. They, too, do a great job on the convertible design (chest section folds away so you can wear the waders and waist-high pants). They cost a bit more, though, and they tend to have a more athletic cut.

Can't complain about Redington's offerings either -- I lke their zip-fronts as much as I like Simms' zip front even though the Redington's are half the price of the SImms. Also note that testers who handle women-specific gear for me swear Redington is the ONLY way to go for women's waders.

Actually, Redington is licensed to use Orvis' technology -- Orvis developed the sonic welding on waders technique. Their Silver Sonic waders are among the best I've used at a great price. I love their design on the convertible top. http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=5H5E

I also have come to love Patagonia's waders. They, too, do a great job on the convertible design (chest section folds away so you can wear the waders and waist-high pants). They cost a bit more, though, and they tend to have a more athletic cut.

Can't complain about Redington's offerings either -- I lke their zip-fronts as much as I like Simms' zip front even though the Redington's are half the price of the SImms. Also note that testers who handle women-specific gear for me swear Redington is the ONLY way to go for women's waders.

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I agree with this statement about the Patagonia waders. My father has had his for almost 5 years now and he puts them through their paces. Nice wader.

I've been wearing Redington Sonic Pros for about a year and a half. I really like them for comfort and fit.
I had one issue with a seam, although they never leaked. As usual when needed, Redington provided great customer service.

My next pair will be the zipper fronts, as that is a feature that looks more appealing the older I get.
SF

I'd like advice and opinion if you please on getting a new pair of breathable waders. Although I'd just love to spend >>$500 it's just not really in my allowable fly fishing budget...unless I make secret installment payments!

What would you recommend and avoid, especially seam vs. non-seam? I understand layering but warmth is important.

Thanks much,
TR

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How many times a winter are you going to use them. I think it would depend how many times you get to get out and fish would determine how much you should spend on waders. I have Dan Bailey's Bare Bones. I couldn't be happier with them.

Not that you have to drive to Ephrata, but I just bought a pair of Dan Bailey's thru Desert Fly Angler for $199. I also joined the new age and replaced my felt boots with a pair of studded boots. The studs were out of stock so I got 40 1/4" machine screws and put 20 on the bottom of each boot. Cheap man's cleats... and if my car door falls off on a trip I have spare screws to reattach it.

Lots of good waders around. If cost is the issue, Dan Bailey's usually get the most votes for cost effectiveness measured in days of fishing per dollar spent. I'm using Redington Sonic Pro zip front for the past year because I got a good deal on them. I really like them, but the cost per day is higher at full retail. At my age the zip front is really nice though.

I gave up on Simms waders years ago, after the insides of them were polka-dotted with AquaSeal for all the pin-hole leaks, and the seams couldn't be sealed any more. I've used Patagonia Wader Master and Rio Gallegos waders for several years now, and have no complaints. Gig Harbor Fly Shop has them on sale right now:http://store.pugetsoundflyco.com/sale-closeout.html